If a wildfire starts on an island, it’s important to call Ontario wildfire in order to receive additional support. 310-FIRE is the phone number to report a wildfire. When reporting a wildfire, be sure to remain calm and include the following information.
- Where you are – Either GPS coordinates or “What three words”. An island name may not be recognized, especially for smaller islands.
- What fire behavior you are seeing – Smoldering in the ground; if there is open flame on the ground and the height of the flame; if entire trees are burning; if large groups of trees are burning.
- How large the fire is – any size reference will work.
- Which direction the fire is spreading – usually determined by the wind.
- Structures at risk – are there cabins or other structures on the island or nearby islands and how close is the fire to the nearest structure. If structures are on fire, be sure to include this information, as well as if there is still fire burning through the bush.
- How to get there – Make sure to let dispatch know that the fire is on an island.
- Any known hazards such as propane tanks, sheds that contain fuel or chemicals that may become involved in the fire, the presence of drones or any other hazard that may impact wildfire responders.
Keep in mind that it’s important to distinguish between a wildfire and a structure fire, Ontario Wildfire is not equipped to suppress a structure fire, and neither are you. If a structure is on fire and it is beyond what a fire extinguisher can put out, evacuate to a safe location upwind of the building. The smoke from a structure fire can be extremely toxic. If there are propane tanks in or beside the structure, move at least 100 meters away. Once evacuated do not approach the structure for any reason.